The Auto Refinish Market
The auto refinish market faces a slow down in demand in North America and
Western Europe, but emerging markets offer growth opportunities.
by Kerry Pianoforte, Associate Editor
The automotive refinish market continues to face decreas- ing demand in North America and Western Europe. The conomic downturn, increased safety features and a decrease in miles driven are contributing to weakening demand in
these mature markets. However, in emerging markets such as
Asia and Eastern Europe, newly affluent consumers are driving
the auto refinish market forward.
“Generally speaking the current market for auto refinish re-
flects the weakness of the global economy overall,” said John
Outcalt, PPG vice president, global refinish. “As a result, devel-
oped countries—those encompassed by NAFTA and Europe—
continue to experience flat to slightly declining volumes,
specifically impacted by such factors as fewer miles being driven
and the increased number of cash outs and vehicle totals.”
In emerging markets, such as Asia and Eastern Europe, the
view is more positive despite the impact of the global economy.
“This can be attributed to the growing affluence in ROW mar-
www.coatingsworld.com
October 2011
